PETROLHEADS across Basildon are being asked to take on a 900-mile challenge through Europe.

The Bust Banger Rally, which sees motoring enthusiasts drive to Monte Carlo in a car worth less than £250, is open for entries.

The rally, in June and July, sees entrants take part in a variety of Top Gear-style challenges to compete for points and prizes along the journey.

Taking place over three days, it sees more than 100 British bangers visit France, Italy and Switzerland, complete with backdrops of sun, sea, sand and snow. Teams are encouraged to raise money for local charities of their choice, with more than £100,000 being raised last year.

Cuthbert Ware-Armitage, one of the Bust Banger Rally organisers, wants to find a team in Basildon.

He said: “I’m laying down the challenge to the people of Basildon to join me on Europe’s ultimate banger adventure.

“This is a brilliant opportunity to get your team into gear and experience some of the greatest roads in Europe.”